Writing Common Mistake: Incorrect or Limited Vocabulary

Vocabulary, or lexical resource, is a critical component of the IELTS Writing test. It assesses your ability to use a wide range of words and phrases accurately and appropriately. However, many candidates fall into one of two traps:

• Incorrect Vocabulary Usage: Using words or phrases that don’t fit the context, which can confuse the reader or weaken your argument.
• Limited Vocabulary: Repeating the same words throughout the essay, showing a lack of variety and flexibility.

Both issues can result in a lower band score. For instance, repeatedly using basic terms like “good” or “bad” instead of more precise alternatives (e.g., “beneficial” or “detrimental”) limits your ability to express nuanced ideas.

How to Avoid This Mistake

Improving your vocabulary takes time and practice. Here are strategies to enhance your lexical resource:

a. Expand Your Vocabulary Through Reading
Reading widely exposes you to varied vocabulary and how words are used in different contexts. Focus on:

• IELTS practice materials.
• News articles on common IELTS topics (e.g., environment, technology, education).

b. Learn Synonyms and Collocations
Avoid repeating the same words by building a bank of synonyms. However, ensure you understand their nuances and context.

• Example: Instead of “important,” use “crucial,” “vital,” or “significant” where appropriate. Additionally, learn common collocations (words that frequently go together) to improve naturalness.
• Example: “Make a decision” (correct) vs. “do a decision” (incorrect).

c. Practice Paraphrasing
Paraphrasing allows you to restate ideas in different ways, showcasing your range of vocabulary.

• Original: Education plays an important role in society.
• Paraphrased: Education is a vital component of societal development.

d. Use Topic-Specific Vocabulary
Develop a list of vocabulary for common IELTS topics, such as environment, health, and technology.

• Example (Environment): “pollution,” “emissions,” “sustainability,” “renewable energy.”

e. Avoid Overuse of Complex Words
While using advanced vocabulary is beneficial, forcing complex words into your writing can make it sound unnatural. Focus on clarity and appropriateness.

Examples of This Mistake and How to Fix It

Poor Example (Incorrect Vocabulary)
The government should do policies to help people who live in poverty.
Problem: “Do policies” is incorrect. The correct collocation is “implement policies.”

Improved Example
The government should implement policies to assist individuals living in poverty.

Why It Works: The improved version uses the correct collocation, enhancing clarity and accuracy.

Poor Example (Limited Vocabulary)
Technology is good. It helps people communicate. Technology is good for education too. It is good for health as well.

Problem: The word “good” is repeated excessively, demonstrating limited vocabulary.

Improved Example
Technology is beneficial in various aspects of life. It facilitates communication, enhances educational opportunities, and contributes to advancements in healthcare.

Why It Works: The improved version uses varied and precise vocabulary, making the argument more compelling.

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